National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

Hello,

I am not quite sure what I was expecting to hear when I finally met with my oncologist to get the specifics on my course of treatment, which drugs I will be given, and when etc. BUT I was not expecting this.

Basically, beginning Thursday April 10th, 2008.*** I am going to go through 8 sessions of chemo, that is every two weeks, for 4 months. After the chemo I should be ready for surgery which will hopefully be a successful removal of my cyst. Following the surgery I will go back into 4 more months of chemo and radiation to make sure all of the cancer cells are gone.

There is a LOT more but those are the basics. I will be receiving my chemo via an IV which means a needle will be inserted into my arm upon each visit to the Infusion Suite (that is the name of the chemo area at St. Luke's Roosevelt) and it will go on for 2- 3 hours....YIPES! The book I was given called Chemotherapy & You by The National Breast Cancer Institute, gives all sorts of "what to expect info" as well as how to deal with side effects--nausea, diarrhea etc... DOUBLE YIPES!

The worst part is my cancer is 'fairly advanced' and I am lucky, that at this point, my breast can be saved. I was told there is a 50% chance of re-occurrence in my case. I was given several prescriptions including one for a wig! Yes, I will lose my hair. Additionally, I received my written referrals for final tests before my therapy. I was also informed that I will be on a very strong medication (have to look up the exact name) that will prevent me from getting pregnant for 5 years.

This not only concerns me but makes me SAD, even if my eggs were to survive chemo a pregnancy would increase my estrogen levels and hurt the cancer recovery process.

I want 3 little ones very badly, so pray for me.

***That gives me 1 last week of PURE freedom to be a regular "on the go" chick!